Gillespie Pass Circuit
The Gillespie Pass Circuit - a wild Mt Aspiring loop over a 1,500 m pass with Crucible Lake nearby
The route
The line through Mount Aspiring NP, New Zealand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Makarora / Wanaka trailheadTrailhead
Loop start [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Mid-loop camp/hutCamp
Staging (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3High pointSummit
High point of the loop [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 4Makarora / Wanaka trailhead (finish)Trailhead
Loop close [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
Dec-Mar
Exposed alpine weather - sudden storms, wind, cold and snow possible; check the forecast and carry a PLB; river levels are the key hazard
Best Dec-Mar; unbridged rivers rise fast; snow lingers early. Confirm.
On the trail
Beech forest, a high alpine pass, and river valleys
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
Quiet backcountry
Crucible Lake side trip; jet-boat exit on the Wilkin from Kerin Forks
Getting there & staying
Makarora (Young valley) - jet-boat/road exit
Jet-boat exit on the Wilkin River is part of the classic logistics
DOC backcountry huts (Young, Siberia, Kerin Forks)
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Makarora / Wanaka; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No booking system; backcountry huts (tickets/pass). Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Unbridged river crossings, the alpine pass, weather, remoteness
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.